Intrepid Traveler Dispatch: Iguazu, Florianópolis

Evan Kubitschek is the contributor to this Intrepid Traveler Dispatch, in which a reader tells us about a recent trip to Latin America. These dispatches aim to offer valuable tips and help steer you in the right direction and avoid snafus other travelers have experienced.

Having recently graduated from college in the U.S., Evan has been living in Argentina for the past five months. He writes about his experiences there on his blog, Expedition Evan. You can follow him on Twitter at @evan_kubitschek.

In this dispatch Evan tells us about his solo trip from Argentina to Brazil. Specifically,  to Iguazu and Florianópolis. While he reports that the scenery was spectacular, Evan says the real attraction in Brazil is the people.

If you’ve taken a trip to Latin America and you’d like to share some advice to your fellow travel fanaticos, send me a note at travelojos AT gmail.com.

THE TRIP: I spent three weeks in Brazil over Christmas break this year.

WHO: I traveled solo, I prefer to wander aimlessly and get lost in my own head when I travel.

WHY: After living in Buenos Aires for 5 months, I wanted to get away from the city and see this “Iguazu” all my friends had been talking about.  I also wanted some beach time and surfing lessons in Florianópolis.

WHEN: Three weeks from December 10th to the 31st, 2008.

GETTING THERE WAS: Easy enough, I hopped on a Via Bariloche overnight bus and awoke to Iguazu outside my window the next morning.  Highly recommended way to travel around Argentina on the cheap!

I WAS REALLY SURPRISED WHEN: I took the boat in Iguazu underneath the falls, I had no idea that much water was so powerful!  I couldn’t even open my eyes.

I REALIZED THAT I WOULD LOVE IT WHEN: I checked into my hostel in Florianópolis and they handed me a caipirhina.  Ah, Florianópolis…

THE BEST PLACE I STAYED WAS: Backpackers Share House in Florianópolis.  If you’re looking for a hostel with an amazing atmosphere, wonderful staff, and a schedule of excellent meals and activities, they’ve got you covered.  Just watch out for Jay’s caipirhinas, they’re deadly!

THE COOLEST ATTRACTION WAS: Iguazu Falls.  No question in my mind.  They made Niagara Falls look silly in comparison.  If there’s one site that you should put on a trip to Brazil or Argentina, make it Iguazu!

IF I HAD TO DO IT AGAIN I WOULD HAVE: Spent more time there, three weeks wasn’t enough!  I’m already planning a trip to Rio in the near future.  I’d give myself at least a month to really soak in the unique nature of Brazil, everyone is so warm and cheerful!

THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE I HAVE ABOUT VISITING BRAZIL IS: Get out there and meet people!  This isn’t like some places where travelers are reviled, they love that you’re coming to see their country!